Virginia Beach City Council unanimously rejects future data centers, residents applaud the decision
The Virginia Beach City Council has unanimously voted to reject all future large-scale data center development in the city. This decision came after months of significant public opposition from residents. While existing co-location facilities are not affected, the council has drawn a firm line against new large data center campuses.
The Virginia Beach City Council has unanimously decided to halt future large-scale data center development within the city. This definitive stance was solidified during a recent city council meeting and followed months of strong community opposition, with residents frequently packing meetings to express their concerns.
While the city aims to continue supporting the technology industry by welcoming essential infrastructure like transatlantic cables and co-location facilities, officials stated they do not want the accompanying large data center campuses, which they consider a nuisance. Council members emphasized their clear position, indicating a firm "no" to such developments. This decision, which drew applause from residents, is considered settled and will move to the planning commission and then return to the council for a final vote to formalize the resolution.
However, existing co-location facilities, which fall under different classifications than the large-scale data centers that sparked community opposition, will continue to operate.